Lenn Sakata

Lenn Haruki Sakata (born June 8 1954 in Honolulu, Hawaii), is a former professional baseball player who played in the Major Leagues primarily as a utility player from 1977-1987 and was a member of the Baltimore Orioles 1983 World Series Championship team. Sakata played college baseball for Gonzaga University, in Spokane, Washington.

After his playing career ended, Sakata began coaching in the minor league system. He has served as manager of the Modesto A's (1989), San Jose Giants (1999, 2001, 2004-Present), Bakersfield Blaze (2000), and Fresno Grizzlies (2002). On May 31, 2007 Sakata notched his 527th victory as a California League manager, setting the record for lifetime wins.

Sakata was the starting shortstop for the Orioles when Cal Ripken, Jr. began his consecutive games played streak.

Sakata owns a small chain of high-end independent grocery stores in the Fresno, California area.

Teams

• Milwaukee Brewers 1977-1979

• Baltimore Orioles 1980-1985

• Oakland Athletics 1986

• New York Yankees 1987

Batting Stats

• 565 Games

• 296 Hits

• 25 Home Runs

• 109 RBI's

• .230 Batting Average

Sources

• Career statistics and player information from Baseball Reference
• Sakata Winningest Manager in California League History Press Release